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Nursing Theses and Capstone Projects Hunt School of Nursing

2012

Second-Year Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)Self-Efficacy in Relation to Simulation LabExperiencesSarah W. TateGardner-Webb University

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Recommended CitationTate, Sarah W., "Second-Year Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Self-Efficacy in Relation to Simulation Lab Experiences" (2012).Nursing Theses and Capstone Projects. 145.https://digitalcommons.gardner-webb.edu/nursing_etd/145

SECOND-YEAR ASSOCIATE DEGREE NURSING (ADN) SELF-EFFICACY IN

RELATION TO SIMULATION LAB EXPERIENCES

By

Sarah W. Tate

A thesis submitted to the faculty of

Gardner-Webb University School of Nursing

In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the

Degree of Master of Science in Nursing

Boiling Springs

2011-2012

Submitted by: Approved by:

_______________________ _______________________

Sarah W. Tate Mary Alice Hodge, PhD, RN

_______________________ _______________________

Date Date

ii

Abstract

Second-Year Associate Degree Student (ADN) Self-Efficacy in Relation to Simulation

Lab Experiences utilized a convenience sample of second-year associate degree nursing

students to conduct a survey of their perceptions of an increase in self-efficacy or self-

confidence in relation to their simulation lab experiences. Albert Bandura’s theory of

self-efficacy was the theoretical framework for the study. Students who have high levels

of self-efficacy have been shown to handle obstacles with less stress, perseverance, and

success. In this study, 85% of the students agreed that simulation lab experiences were

beneficial in increasing their confidence to perform safely in their preceptorship and as

new graduate nurses.

iii

Table of Contents

Chapter I

Introduction .............................................................................................................1

Statement of the Problem .............................................................................1

Purpose .........................................................................................................3

Background ..................................................................................................3

Significance to Nursing................................................................................4

Theoretical Framework ................................................................................4

Definition of Terms......................................................................................7

Research Question .......................................................................................8

Conclusion ...................................................................................................8

Chapter II

Review of the Literature ..........................................................................................9

Introduction ..................................................................................................9

Literature Review.......................................................................................10

Summary ....................................................................................................16

Chapter III

Method ...................................................................................................................18

Setting & Subjects......................................................................................18

Sampling ....................................................................................................18

Instruments .................................................................................................18

Procedures ..................................................................................................19

Ethical Considerations ...............................................................................20

iv

Data Collection & Data Analysis Procedures ............................................20

Chapter IV

Results ....................................................................................................................21

Statistical Presentation ...............................................................................23

Preparation for precepted experience results .......................................23

Roles and critical thinking results ........................................................24

New nurse graduate responses .............................................................24

Chapter V

Discussion ..............................................................................................................27

Interpretation of Findings ..........................................................................27

Implications for Nursing ............................................................................28

Implications for Further Research .............................................................28

Conclusion .................................................................................................29

References ..............................................................................................................30

Appendices

Appendix A: Simulation Experience Questionnaire ..................................34

Appendix B: Introduction to Survey ..........................................................40

Appendix C: Simulation Experience Survey Consent ...............................42

Appendix D: Comments from Students .....................................................44

v

List of Figures

Figure 1: Concept-Theory-Empirical Research Method Model (CTE)……………..7

vi

List of Tables

Table 1: Second-Year Associate Degree Student (ADN) Self-Efficacy in Relation to

Simulation Lab Experiences ..................................................................................21

Table 2: Descriptive Statistics ...............................................................................22

1

Chapter I

Introduction

Statement of the Problem

Patient safety is one of the highest priorities in nursing care whether in acute care

facilities, non-acute facilities or in the community. Educators of nursing students must

provide opportunities for students to learn how to provide safe care. Simulation

experiences allow educators to provide a safe environment for students to practice care,

learn to handle changes in patient conditions, and manage potential adverse events (Gore,

Hunt, & Raines, 2008). Nursing students need to be able to experience situations with

patients they may encounter during clinical rotations and after graduation from nursing

school as new graduate nurses. Learning how to respond in these situations through

clinical simulations can provide a safe environment in which to practice physical skills,

develop clinical judgment, and critical thinking skills.

Simulation is about the whole learning experience – not just the mannequin. It

incorporates “theory, assessment, pharmacology, pathophysiology, and psychomotor

skills – all of which lead to the development of clinical judgment” (Gore et al., 2008, p.

58). Simulation can be described as low-fidelity to high-fidelity with low-fidelity

including such things as case studies or role-play, low-technology mannequins for

practicing psychomotor skills such as an intravenous (IV) arm or a static head, and trunk

to practice airway management or urinary catheter insertion, and high-fidelity

mannequins that are connected to computers. The military and the field of aviation began

using simulation in the 1970’s for training purposes, and health educators have learned

from their experiences (Jeffries, 2007).

2

Simulation technology has evolved into a level of sophistication and realism in

which the learner can experience a wide range of scenarios that can help in “making

sound decisions in unpredictable health care situations” (Macedonia, Gherman, & Satin,

2003, as cited in Jeffries, 2007). Herm, Scott, and Copley, (2005) found that a simulation

experience to assess the synthesis of knowledge of their students during clinical rounds

provided important insights for the instructors and the students. Some students who were

thought to have a good grasp of the required behaviors and thought processes did not, and

vice versa. One student commented, “I learned more from this simulation exercise than

any other test or paper I’ve written” (p.29). Another student verbalized an understanding

of now I know “what I’m supposed to be doing in clinical” (p.29). The purpose of the

study, Second-Year Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Student Self-Efficacy in Relation

to Simulation Lab Experiences, was to examine the second year ADN’s perception of

whether simulation experiences during their two-year program of study prepared them for

their clinical preceptorship at the end of their course of study, and for becoming safe and

confident new nurse graduates.

New graduate nurses in the acute care arena have many new roles to adapt to,

perhaps with some expectations in conflict with what they have practiced as a student

(Duchscher, 2008). Duchscher describes transition shock experienced by new nurses as

they acclimate to acute care employment, including stress, frustration, discouragement,

disillusionment, and the high rate of new nurses who change their place of employment

or leave nursing in the first year (2008). Newly graduated nurses who have a high sense

of self-efficacy may be more successful in this journey of transition. Simulation

experiences can bolster confidence levels by providing non-threatening practice

3

opportunities. High self-efficacy can help the new nurse to recover from the frustrations

and discouragement of the first years as a practicing nurse (Bandura, 1994).

Purpose

Nursing is a challenging and rewarding field where much preparation is required

to become a safe and knowledgeable new graduate nurse. There can be opportunities to

build skill and confidence with simulations as the student practices in scenarios before

and during patient contact. The purpose of this study was to measure the second year

student ADN’s perceived positive or negative influence of simulation experiences on

their confidence level in relation to preparing them for a preceptorship and becoming

safely practicing new nurse graduates.

Background

Albert Bandura, psychologist, author, and professor, is the founder of Social

Cognitive Theory and the Theory of Self-Efficacy. Bandura (2004) described efficacy

beliefs of students as having an influence over goals and aspirations, how obstacles are

handled, and the level of perseverance to overcome and be successful. “The stronger the

perceived self-efficacy, the higher the goals people set for themselves and the firmer their

commitment to them . . .” (p. 145). Bandura’s theory supports the reasoning behind the

use of simulation – to increase student self-efficacy, to help them believe in themselves

and have the confidence to be successful in their clinical encounters and as new nurses.

Simulations can be as simple as a body part used to practice a specific skill, such

as an arm to practice inserting an intravenous (IV) catheter, or as complicated as a room

full of high fidelity mannequins that speak and respond with programmed body functions

(Gore et al., 2008). The experience can enhance learning or merely be one more

4

assignment in the long list of nursing school requirements. The quality of the experience

may depend on the instructors, the design of the simulation, and on the preparation of the

students (Smith & Roehrs, 2009).

Significance to Nursing

Self-efficacy is the belief in oneself, the belief that obstacles can be overcome,

that through perseverance, goals are met. Strong self-efficacy supports a can-do attitude

that provides assurance of being able to control threatening situations, and reduces

personal stress (Fritscher, 2009). Bandura’s theory states that the most effective means of

influencing self-efficacy is through mastery experiences (1994).

Simulation can offer the opportunity to master skills, or situations with patients

that could likely occur in the clinical setting. Self-efficacy can be gained through practice

of new skills when the student masters the skills and through social modeling, or

watching others in similar circumstances succeed (Bandura, 1994). Simulation offers

both options when the student is in the primary caregiver role or in the observer role. The

question is whether the ADN student nurse perceives simulation experiences as adding to

their sense of confidence in relation to practicing safely in the clinical preceptorship and

as a new nurse graduate.

Theoretical Framework

Albert Bandura’s Theory of Self-Efficacy was chosen for Second-Year Associate

Degree Nursing (ADN) Student Self-Efficacy in Relation to Simulation Lab Experiences

because this theory defines how people or students regulate their behavior based on their

self-efficacy or “their beliefs in their own capabilities” (Pajares, 2004, para. 28). Within

this framework, efficacy is shown to influence decisions, affect performance, thinking,

5

motivation and success (1994). The use of simulation exercises to promote high levels of

self-efficacy include not only the reinforcement of mastering the skill or situation through

practice, but also vicariously through watching others successfully master the skill or

situation, and by allowing the student to make mistakes without judgment and to practice

until mastery is achieved (Bandura, 1994). In educational research, it has been shown that

students with positive self-efficacy “work harder, persist longer, persevere in the face of

adversity, have greater optimism and lower anxiety, and achieve more” (Pajares, 2004,

para. 29).

There are four major psychological processes involved in self-efficacy. Cognitive

processes involve thought processes. Those with high self-efficacy develop skills to

process information that includes many ambiguities and uncertainties, setting challenging

goals and using analytic thinking (Bandura, 1994). Motivational processes involve

forming beliefs about what can be accomplished and planning courses of action based on

these beliefs. Those with high self-efficacy state that their failures are due to lack of

effort, while those with low self-efficacy state that their failures are due to low ability

(Bandura, 1994). Affective processes involve stress reactions, depression, fear, and

anxiety. Mastery experiences that are integral to simulation practice help to conquer these

feelings and develop higher self-efficacy. Selection processes involve beliefs in personal

efficacy shaping the course taken in life. People undertake activities and situations they

feel capable of handling (Bandura, 1994).

In this study, Second-Year ADN Student Self-Efficacy In Relation to Simulation

Lab Experiences, students were evaluated for their perceptions of self-efficacy. Bandura

discussed the importance of self-belief in determining successful outcomes for the future.

6

Students may not feel confident in their abilities as new nurses due to the reality of high

patient acuities, shorter patient stays and critical staffing shortages, and causes high stress

atmospheres for learning (Jeffries, 2007). Simulation practice in clinical lab affords

students the opportunity to practice in safety, both for them and for the patient. Skills

learned in simulation lab practice can be perfected with repetition. Affective processes of

stress and anxiety can be reduced with practice and repetition. The student can gain in

self-efficacy with practice that allows mastery of the skill or situation. Simulation can

help to develop cognitive processes by having students think their way through situations.

Experiencing many different kinds of experiences will expand the thought processes

needed to work through situations. Having productive experiences in simulation lab can

improve motivation to continue and reach further through active learning (Jeffries, 2007).

The concept-theory-empirical research method diagram reveals the relationships

between Bandura’s theory of self-efficacy and this study of simulation experiences

and increased self-efficacy.

7

Figure 1. Concept-Theory-Empirical Research Method Model (CTE)

Definition of Terms

Self-efficacy is the confidence in oneself to be able to persevere in unfamiliar and

possibly threatening situations, and to see challenges as opportunities (Bandura,

1994).

The Associate Degree Nurse (ADN) program is a demanding two-year course of

study culminating in graduation and the expectation to successfully complete the

nursing board exam and become employable as a Registered Nurse (Gardner-Webb

University Academic Programs, 2012).

Simulation is using an artificial object or fabricated situation to practice actual skills

and scenarios (Gore et al., 2008).

Majority of students expressed increase in confidence and self-efficacy due to practice in simulation lab.

Simulation Lab Experiences Increase Student Self-Efficacy

Bandura's Theory of Self-Efficacy

Cognitive Processes

Motivational Processes

Affective Processes

Selection Processes Quantitative

Descriptive Study

54 of 57 student responses to survey

Packet of information presented to students after final exams.

Descriptive analysis of data

8

Research Question

The purpose of this study, Second-Year Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)

Student Self-Efficacy in Relation to Simulation Lab Experiences, is based on the question

of whether second- year ADN students perceived that simulation experiences in clinical

laboratory practice increased their self-efficacy for safely practicing in a preceptorship

and as new nurse graduates.

Conclusion

Simulation exercises can provide a means for nursing students to master a skill

needed in the clinical arena without jeopardizing the safety of patients. Bandura’s theory

of self-efficacy supports the use of simulation exercises to promote self-confidence in

nursing students in dealing with new experiences, new skills and new situations in a

productive manner that will lead to successes. The question to be answered was whether

this group of graduating student nurses’ perceived simulation exercises as beneficial to

increasing self-efficacy for completing a preceptorship and for entering the workforce

and practicing safely as a new nurse graduate.

9

Chapter II

Review of the Literature

Introduction

The literature reveals several studies that have examined the use of high fidelity

simulation (HFS) and the relation to student satisfaction and self-confidence (Bambini,

Washburn, & Perkins, 2009; Bearnson & Wiker, 2005; Feingold, Calaluce, & Kallen,

2004; Goldenberg, Andrusyszyn, & Iwasiw, 2005; Henneman & Cunningham, 2005;

Smith & Roehrs, 2009), student anxiety reduction with simulation (Bremner, Aduddell,

& Amason, 2008), and improving therapeutic communication skills (Kameg, Howard,

Clochesy, Mitchell, & Suresky, 2010). These studies were conducted in relation to

specific areas, such as critical care, medical-surgical, obstetrics, mental health, and

postoperative patients. They were all conducted with baccalaureate (BSN) level students

early in their nursing course of study, with the exception of Kameg et al. (2010) who did

not identify participants other than as nursing students.

High-fidelity simulation includes mannequins that are the most realistic and life-

like, are interactive with pulses, breath sounds, bowel sounds, voices, and other attributes,

and scenarios where the equipment and room most resemble an actual clinical situation.

The simulation experience in these instances minimizes the need to pretend that

equipment is available or that the patient has a certain response; however, a complete

high-fidelity simulation lab with several high-technology mannequins and fully stocked

hospital rooms and equipment can cost in the millions of dollars (Jeffries, 2007).

The focus was different in Second Year Associate Degree Nursing (ADN)

Student Self-Efficacy in Relation to Simulation Lab Experiences, where the second-year

10

associate degree nursing student (ADN) was giving their perception of the overall

simulation experience from the previous two years and how it related to self-confidence

in participating in a preceptorship experience, and preparing for the role of new nurse

graduate. These students compared their simulation experiences as a whole instead of

evaluating only their most recent simulation experience. The type of mannequin or

simulation was not figured into the survey and could have been a limiting factor in the

outcome of the survey.

Literature Review

Smith and Roehrs (2009) found a relationship between the design characteristics

of the simulation and the level of satisfaction of the student. These design characteristics

included objectives, support, problem solving, guided reflection and fidelity. Among

these characteristics, problem solving (0.558) and objectives (0.573) were most important

in contributing to self-confidence at a significance level of 0.01. The other characteristics

were significant at a lower rate: support (0.508), guided reflection (0.447) and fidelity

(0.430). This research suggests that the design of the simulation is a very important

aspect of the satisfaction and the self-confidence gained by the student. The limitations of

this study were, a small sample size (68), and it was limited to a group of junior BSN

students in their first medical-surgical course.

Bambini et al. (2009) suggested that simulations improve responses to complex

situations and promote student confidence to deal with ever-changing patient scenarios.

Bandura’s framework of self-efficacy is utilized to explain student gains in self-efficacy

when utilizing simulated experiences in lab settings. Self-confidence in performing a

post-partum exam was measured in this group of students who were preparing for their

11

first clinical experience. The simulation included the skills of performing vital signs,

breast exam, assessing the fundus, assessing lochia, and patient teaching. All were found

to have a significant positive increase for the students in relation to preparation for the

clinical experience. These students expressed an increase of confidence in being able to

communicate with the patient, with the physical skills needed for the assessment of the

patient, and in the ability to recognize priorities of care. A limitation of this study was the

variability of student experiences due to individual interactions during the simulations

that may have caused different learning outcomes. Also, with no control over who chose

to participate in the study, validity could be compromised due to selection threat.

Bremner et al. (2008) found that students expressed a reduction in anxiety for

their first clinical experience when they practiced scenarios with a simulator. The

simulation experience presented a non-threatening atmosphere for practice for these first-

year BSN students. Findings included a need for well-articulated learner outcomes that

clearly related to the course offerings and the clinical objectives.

Kameg et al. (2010) studied student self-efficacy in relation to improving

therapeutic communication skills before students were to participate in a mental health

clinical rotation. The researchers used Bandura’s self-efficacy theory as the theoretical

structure, finding that students often have difficulty and anxiety related to communicating

with mentally ill patients and simulation could bridge the gap in preparation for these

encounters. The survey data of this study showed that the students were generally in

favor of the simulation experience; that it was a valuable learning experience, it should be

included in the curriculum and that the knowledge could be transferred to the clinical

setting. These students did not believe it should be a replacement for experiences in the

12

clinical setting. Limitations of this study included the inability of the simulator manikin

to show facial expressions, which are an integral component of personal communication,

and small sample size of 38.

Radhakrishnan, Roche, and Cunningham (2007) designed a study to measure

clinical skills using a simulation evaluation tool. This study was quasi-experimental with

a control group. The results found a correlation between clinical sessions with

simulations and improved performance in properly identifying patients and assessing

vital signs (p=.001 and p=.009 respectively).

Gore et al. (2008) completed a study using mock hospital rooms and simulation

experiences over a four-hour session. The students were given the chart information for

each patient that included history, laboratory reports, EKG results, radiology reports,

physician orders, medication records, progress notes, nurse’s notes, and interdisciplinary

notes. Each student cared for one patient except, for a post trauma patient that had two

students assigned. One notable incident occurred when a student left her room to help

another student but left the patient bed in a high position with bed rails lowered. The

instructors disconnected the patient from all tubing and placed the patient on the floor.

The student returned and moved the patient back to the bed and reconnected the IV,

urinary catheter, and oxygen, then reported to the instructor charge nurse. These students

learned how to complete an incident report and passed their information along to other

classes about the importance of patient safety. The instructors had no other issues with

patients falling from bed. These students learned through what Bandura would call

modeling. They did not have to experience it themselves to learn the significance.

Limitations of this study included the need to develop reliable tools to monitor outcomes.

13

Students have differing learning styles, and Fountain and Alfred (2009) studied

which learning styles were most conducive to simulation experiences. This was a post-

test study using a convenience sample of 76 baccalaureate-nursing students and showed

that two learning styles were most associated with satisfaction using simulation – the

social learning and solitary learning styles. Social learning styles comprise interacting

with others, comparing and listening and were supported by 76% of the students. The

study supported simulation to be an effective learning tool for students with differing

learning styles. Limitations of this study include small sample size limited to one school

of nursing and potential group perception bias.

Lee, Lee, Wong, Tsang, and Li (2010), established an integrated skills training

center in Hong Kong. Within this training center were high-fidelity simulators, low-

fidelity simulators, virtual reality simulators and static simulators. The researchers found

the static and low-fidelity simulators useful to hone psychomotor skills, the high-fidelity

simulators more useful in integrating critical thinking skills and consolidation of

information, and the virtual reality simulators useful in the mental health arena due to the

student being able to see what the patient sees to get an understanding of care needed.

The researchers expressed the importance of faculty buy-in and adequate training on an

ongoing basis. These researchers recognized the importance of evaluating the impact on

student learning and outcomes and formed a group for those means.

Paskins and Peile (2010) studied final year medical students’ views on

simulation-based teaching. Findings included the importance of feedback, integration into

the curriculum, repetitive practice, confidence, and increased self-efficacy, anxiety,

realism, and teamwork. Over half of the 28 medical school students from the United

14

Kingdom who participated in this study, discussed the technical limitations of the

medium-fidelity simulators. Teamwork was found to be beneficial for those who usually

did not choose the team leader role to be in a position of delegating tasks, and for those

natural leaders to be in the supportive positions helped them to gain a sense of those

roles’ needs. The researchers found that some students felt the simulation exercises were

more stressful than a real-life emergency, and that feedback could profoundly affect

positive or negative confidence levels. Some students were found not to like the role-play

aspect of simulations, where others felt it helped them to grow in their learning styles.

The researchers felt an independent researcher for analysis could possibly improve

reliability and further expressed limitations due to single institution and single clinical

group results. The researchers felt, “further work is needed to expand on the effect of

simulation-based teaching on confidence, anxiety and self-efficacy particularly” (p. 576).

Anthony, Carter, Freundl, Nelson, and Wadlington (2012) discussed the need for

nursing students to become proficient in the care of veterans, who often have special

needs that relate to experiences during tours of duty. Nurses will encounter veterans in

locations other than at veteran’s hospitals, and there is a need for some specialized

knowledge relating to effects of environmental conditions or chemicals the veterans may

have been exposed to, and to their mental states. Many veterans may experience post-

traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, ill effects from traumatic brain injuries,

substance abuse issues, diabetes, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD),

congestive heart failure, Parkinson’s disease, ischemic heart disease, prostate cancer, and

other conditions. While most of these conditions also occur in the general population,

15

there may be unique combinations in veterans. There is a movement in the American

Nurses Association since 2008 to increase awareness of veterans’ needs among nurses.

Anthony et al. (2012) devised a simulation scenario to be used to disseminate

information to improve the quality of care for veterans. The researchers’ scenario was

developed to help nursing students increase awareness of veteran’s needs, improve

prioritization in planning and implementing veteran centered care, apply principles of

patient safety, identify symptoms of PTSD, interpret lab values and diagnostic tests, and

communicate effectively with the interdisciplinary team. A difference with this

simulation study mentioned roles of a family member and the voice of the patient, in

addition to the nurse and the nurse reporting to the student. The study gave the whole

scenario including the information given to the student, roles, what the patient says, what

the family says, and the expectations of the student. Debriefing was in a non-threatening

atmosphere using open-ended questions from the faculty, then challenging the students to

identify opportunities for improvement, and finally re-examined for the scenario’s

relation to the nursing process. The scenario developed by the researchers can help to

provide culturally aware care for nursing students and practicing nurses.

Reinhardt, Mullins, De Blieck, and Schultz (2012) studied whether high-fidelity

simulation increased the ability of students to insert an intravenous catheter (IV) over a

task trainer IV arm. Ninety-four junior baccalaureate nursing students were included in

this experimental, randomized, controlled study. Findings included no significant

difference between simulation models (p= .7), and no significant difference in student

confidence score between simulation models. As well, the ability to insert an IV into a

live patient did not correlate with either instruction method.

16

Wilt and King (2012) developed a curriculum of simulation labs for an

accelerated BSN program, discussing the obstacles overcome and the inspirations for

future improvements. Two of the challenges overcome included timing and scheduling

for this accelerated program and the amount of time to orient these students to the

simulation experience. These were overcome by adding another mannequin, scheduling

the students on the other half of the day they had clinicals, and providing video

orientation on Blackboard to decrease the time it took to orient the students to the

simulation lab and process. A goal of this study was to fully involve clinical faculty in the

simulation activities, including developing scenarios and offering feedback to students.

Summary

There are a number of studies that address using simulation as an adjunct to

preparation for clinical experiences. Overall these studies have shown popularity among

nursing students for this method of teaching and learning, and have been shown to be

perceived as increasing self-efficacy in early clinical experiences, individual clinical

experiences for specific specialties such as medical-surgical, mental health, veterans,

post-operative and obstetrics patients, and communication with patients. Second-Year

Associate Degree Nursing Student Self-Efficacy in Relation to Simulation Lab

Experiences studied the perceptions of ADN graduating nursing students in relation to

their self-efficacy from simulation experiences in preparation for preceptorship and as

new nurse graduates.

This study differed from the previous studies in the placement of the evaluation in

relation to the location in the course of study, and in the focus of the study. The group of

students in Second-Year ADN Self-Efficacy in Relation to Simulation Lab Experiences

17

had completed their two-year course of study. Their evaluation of simulation was a

cumulative view of overall experiences with simulation. The focus was based on whether

the students experienced an increase in self-efficacy due to their simulation experiences.

18

Chapter III

Method

Setting and Subjects

Second-Year Associate Degree Nursing (ADN) Student Self-Efficacy in Relation

to Simulation Lab Experiences involved responses from a subset of nursing students in a

private university in the Piedmont region of North Carolina. This university offers pre-

licensure, post-licensure and graduate degrees in nursing. The subjects for this study were

enrolled in the pre-licensure, specifically the associate degree program. The ADN

program was selected due to this class readying for graduation, having finished their

course of study. This class had experienced two years of simulation lab assignments and

was evaluated for their perceptions of increased confidence due to the practice in those

labs.

Sampling

The convenience sample of second-year ADN students, who were readying to

graduate and prepare for their nursing board exam and their first position as new nurse

graduates, were of various ages and both genders. Demographic information was not

collected during the study. The survey questionnaire was offered to the entire class after

completion of their final examinations at the end of the semester. The class consisted of

57 potential research subjects of which 54 participated (95% return rate).

Instruments

A survey tool was designed by the researcher and evaluated by content experts for

relevance and content validity. After revision based on feedback, the survey consisted of

twelve questions with a Likert-type scale (Trochim, 2006), including categories from 1-5,

19

strongly disagree, disagree, undecided, agree and strongly agree, respectively, and a

section at the end of the survey for additional comments. The tool was designed to

measure students’ perceptions of whether simulation experiences during lab sessions

prepared them for their preceptorship, for becoming a new graduate nurse, for

administering medications safely, giving a nursing report, learning patient assessments,

communicating with physicians, and enhancing learning (see Appendix A). The survey

data were scored according to the answer chosen from 1 – 5, with equal intervals between

the numbers representing the scores, with 5 as the highest positive score and 1 as the

lowest positive score. The open-ended comments were evaluated for common themes.

Procedures

The study was presented to the students as a packet of information after they

completed final exams, but while still in the classroom (see Appendices A, B, C). The

instructors who were present to proctor the student exams offered the information to each

student. The researcher was not present during the survey. The packet included an

introduction to the study and to the researcher with contact information, a consent form

with an area for a request of the results of the study that could be detached for anonymity,

a debriefing statement with instructions on how to complete the survey, and the twelve-

question survey. Envelopes were provided to each student and students were asked to seal

the envelopes before turning them in.

Prior to beginning the study, students were presented with the informed consent

document as part of the survey packet (see Appendix C). The informed consent form

detailed the purpose of the study and the rights for participating in the study. Each student

had the opportunity to read and have explained the information on the consent form. At

20

any time during the survey, the subject could have declined to participate in the study.

The consent discussed the anonymity of each participant. No identifying information was

included on the survey and if the participant requested results, they could detach the sheet

with their contact information and turn it in separately.

At the completion of the survey, the instructor collected the sealed envelopes in a

folder provided by the researcher. The completed surveys were held in a locked office for

researcher retrieval.

Ethical Considerations

Prior to survey administration, approval was received from the Institutional

Review Board (IRB) of Gardner-Webb University and consent was obtained from each

study participant. It was determined by the researcher that there was no risk involved for

the participants due to complete anonymity. The researcher had no involvement with the

study participants.

Data Collection and Data Analysis Procedures

Surveys were numbered for reference and data was entered in spreadsheet format

in Microsoft Excel and in Statistical Package For Social Sciences (SPSS, vs.20) software

for analysis. The responses for each question were aggregated according to Likert

categories of, 0=No Answer, 1=Strongly Disagree, 2=Disagree, 3=Undecided, 4=Agree,

5=Strongly Agree. Survey data were analyzed to obtain item descriptive statistics

including mean, standard deviation, frequency and percentage of student responses per

response category and question. The additional comments at the end of each survey were

analyzed for frequency of common themes (See Appendix D).

21

Chapter IV

Results

Table 1.

22

Table 2

23

Statistical Presentation

Table 1 shows the breakdown of answers to the survey by question and by

response category. Each question has six possible answer categories when “no answer” is

added for calculation purposes. There was one question by one respondent with no

answer. There was only one response of strongly disagree to one question. Table 2 shows

the Mean, which is the hypothetical estimate of the “typical” score or the center of a

distribution of scores, the Standard Deviation, which is an estimate of the average

variability or spread of a set of data, and the Skewness, or measure of the symmetry of a

frequency distribution. Symmetrical distributions have a skew of 0. Negative skew shows

that frequent scores are clustered at the higher end of the distribution of scores (Field,

2009).

Preparation for precepted experience results. Ninety percent of respondents

answered with either agree or strongly agree, that their simulation experiences in this

nursing school prepared them for their precepted experience in a clinical location.

Questions 3, observing the preceptor make a physician call and feeling confident in

performing this skill due to simulation practice and Question 4, feeling confident giving

report during clinical due to practicing the Situation, Background, Assessment,

Recommendations (SBAR) method during simulation, were answered with seventy-six

and ninety-four percent respectively, agreeing or strongly agreeing with the question.

Task oriented questions 5, concerning administering medications, 6, involving

performing nursing skills, and 7, performing patient assessments, showed agree and

strongly agree percentages of eighty-four percent, eighty-eight percent and ninety-eight

percent respectively.

24

Roles and critical thinking results. A majority of respondents (82%) felt that the

roles used during simulation exercises such as Primary Nurse, Secondary Nurse and

Recorder were beneficial. Seventy-eight percent answered with agree or strongly agree

that simulation was beneficial in learning how to assess a worsening situation in a live

patient. Eighty-seven percent responded with agree or strongly agree that simulation

experiences prepared them to analyze an unfamiliar situation and use sound nursing

judgment to work through it.

New nurse graduate responses. Eighty-three percent of respondents answered

agree or strongly agree that simulation prepared them to confidently perform safely as a

new nurse graduate. Eighty-four percent responded with agree or strongly agree that

without the simulation lab experiences, they would not have the same level of confidence

about nursing skills as a new nurse graduate.

The findings of Second-Year Associate Degree Student (ADN) Self-Efficacy in

Relation to Simulation Lab Experiences overwhelmingly supported positive perceptions

and experiences of simulation lab with a combined 85% of student respondents

answering that they agreed or strongly agreed with the positive statements in the survey.

Questions 3-7 were task oriented and showed the highest percentage of positive answers

(88%), and the highest combined average mean (4.27). This indicated a strong perception

by the students that simulation is beneficial for task-oriented practice, as found in the

literature (Jeffries, 2007). Among those tasks, Question 3 had the lowest agreement

(76%), concerning observing a preceptor making a call to the physician and feeling

comfortable with it due to simulation practice. This skill practice may warrant further

evaluation since communication with physicians can be intimidating as a new nurse.

25

In another form of communication within the task questions, simulation practice

for the SBAR tool appeared to be beneficial for the students. With a mean of 4.44 and

percentage of positive answers being 94%, this indicated the distribution of scores was on

the higher end of the scale with increased agreement to the question. The majority of

students felt that practicing using the SBAR in simulation lab prepared them to give

report during their preceptorship. The highest scoring task-oriented question was number

seven. This question involved using simulation to learn to perform patient assessments.

Ninety-eight percent of respondents answered positively, (mean=4.61), indicating near

group consensus that simulation was beneficial in learning patient assessments.

The general question 9 indicated that several students were unsure or disagreed

that simulation experiences enhanced learning in areas they did not get to experience in

their preceptorship. Twenty percent (mean=3.94) disagreed or were unsure of whether

they agreed with the statement. Further development of scenarios where students can

experience rare or unusual situations that might not occur during clinical could be added

to the simulation lab. Eighty-two percent felt that roles of the participants in simulation

scenarios (Primary Nurse, Secondary Nurse, Recorder) were helpful in the learning

experience. Of the two critical thinking questions, number 2 and 11, one indicated a high

agreement level with 87% agreeing that their experiences in the simulation lab had

prepared them to analyze an unfamiliar situation and use sound nursing judgment to work

through it. In the other question 78% agreed that their simulation experience was

beneficial in learning how to assess a worsening situation in a live patient during the

preceptorship. Scenarios for simulation can be developed to lead students through

26

changing situations with patients; however, every possible worsening health situation

cannot be prepared for.

The two new graduate nurse questions, 10 and 12 were answered with 83% and

84% positive agreement respectively. A majority of these student nurses agreed that their

experiences in simulation lab prepared them to confidently perform safely as a new

graduate nurse and that without the simulation lab, they would not have the same level of

confidence about their nursing skills. This, along with the 90% agreement of simulation

lab experiences preparing the student for their precepted experience indicates that a

majority of this ADN class experienced an increase in self-efficacy due to experiences in

the simulation lab.

The students were able to write comments at the end of the survey and 13

respondents commented on improvements for simulation, what they did not like about

simulation, and what they approved of. These comments are found in their entirety in

Appendix C. Common constructive criticism themes in the comments included feeling

stressed and judged during simulation with no opportunity to discuss what is going on or

ask questions, simulation not being realistic enough, lack of equipment and need to

pretend, the need to discuss pre-lab assignments for full understanding, not knowing by a

grade exactly what part of the simulation was not acceptable, not enough time for repeat

simulations, only using for check off of a skill. Common positive comments included the

experience that simulation lab allowed students to explore situations unlikely to happen

in preceptorship, and assessment skills improved greatly.

27

Chapter V

Discussion

Interpretation of Findings

This group of students overall felt that simulation was a beneficial tool to learn

skills that are needed in the clinical arena. One area of dissimilar agreement was between

questions 2 and 11, which were very similar in content but received unequal amounts of

agreement. Eighty-seven percent agreed that simulation prepared them to analyze an

unfamiliar situation and use sound nursing judgment to work through it, where as 78%

agreed that their simulation experience was beneficial in learning how to assess a

worsening situation in a live patient. An unfamiliar situation and a worsening situation

would have similarities, although student nurses with limited experiences may not have

compared them as such.

According to Bandura’s theory of self-efficacy, mastery experiences are the most

important tool to increase confidence, along with watching someone else with whom the

student identifies (Bandura, 1994). Simulation offers both types of experiences depending

on whether the student performs as the Primary Nurse, Secondary Nurse or Recorder in

the simulation exercise. As the Primary Nurse, the student has the opportunity to actually

perform the skill, which leads to the mastery of the skill if enough practice is allowed.

Mistakes can be learned from without harming a live patient. Others in the assigned

group can learn both from skills performed well and mistakes made during observation.

Due to these experiences, students can be better prepared and therefore more confident in

their actions and decisions as they grow in knowledge.

28

Implications for Nursing

Even though the majority of participants in this class of second-year ADN

students felt that simulation experiences increased their confidence, there were some

valid points in the comments that should be used for further development of this

simulation lab and the experiences provided. Nursing education can benefit from this

technology, to provide students with the practice needed to build a sense of self-efficacy.

Confident nurses are more prepared to weather the constant changes in the healthcare

field, experience less stress, less transitional shock in moving from a student situation to a

work situation (Duchscher, 2008). Simulation has an important role in the education of

nurses and in raising the skill level and confidence level of students in preparation for the

role of nurses in the workforce.

Implications for Further Research

Second-Year Associate Degree Student (ADN) Self-Efficacy in Relation to

Simulation Lab Experiences supported the question of students gaining self-confidence or

self-efficacy from their simulation experiences. There were limitations involving the

sample size (54), although 54 out of 57 students was a high percentage for a return rate of

a survey (95%). These students completed the survey immediately after completing final

exams, before leaving the room. The fatigue factor did not appear to have a negative

impact in the results. A larger sample size including multiple year students might create

more opportunity to gather insights concerning simulation scenarios or methods that

could best work to increase self-efficacy. This study was limited to one site and one

group of participants at one point in time. The fidelity level of the simulations, including

the realism involved was not measured. There were no demographics of the students

29

recorded for comparison between male and female, age groups, level of prior

involvement with technology or learning styles. Further study should include a

comparison between the use of low fidelity and high fidelity in relation to students’

perceptions of what is learned. A focus on standardization of the best means to conduct

simulations for the most productive outcomes for students would benefit all nursing

programs.

Conclusion

This study of second-year ADN students’ perceptions of simulation experiences

was similar to what was found in other studies. Realism of the simulation is important for

some students to be able to transfer that knowledge to a live situation. Several students

commented on pretending, expressing a desire for complete and plentiful equipment

instead of acting as if the equipment is present. Simulation is useful for increasing

confidence in skill performance and can be made an even better experience with more

opportunities to practice in a non-judgmental atmosphere.

30

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34

Appendix A

Simulation Experience Questionnaire

35

Simulation Experience Questionnaire

By completing this questionnaire, you are agreeing to participate in this research study.

The final report will not include any personally identifiable information such as your

name. You are encouraged to ask any questions you may have. You are not obligated in

any way to take this survey, and your grade will not be compromised if you decline.

Please turn in the survey to your instructor before leaving, sealed in the provided

envelope. Thank you very much for taking the time to complete this survey.

Please answer the following questions based on your perceptions and experiences with

the use of simulation labs in your nursing curriculum.

Use the following scale to rate your answers. Please circle your response.

1 = strongly

disagree

2 = disagree 3 =undecided 4 = agree 5 = strongly

agree

36

Simulation Experience Questionnaire

Please circle your response.

1. My simulation experiences at GWU prepared me for my precepted

experience.

1 = strongly

disagree

2 = disagree 3 = undecided 4 = agree 5 = strongly

agree

2. My simulation experiences at GWU were beneficial in learning how to assess a

worsening situation in a live patient during my preceptorship.

1 = strongly

disagree

2 = disagree 3 = undecided 4 = agree 5 = strongly

agree

3. When I observed my preceptor making a physician call during my preceptorship, I

was confident that I would know the procedure due to prior practice in the simulation lab.

1 = strongly

disagree

2 = disagree 3 = undecided 4 = agree 5 = strongly

agree

4. I feel using SBAR during simulation prepared me to give report during my

preceptorship.

1 = strongly

disagree

2 = disagree 3 = undecided 4 = agree 5 = strongly

agree

37

5. I feel administering medications during simulations prepared me to safely administer

medications during my preceptorship.

1 = strongly

disagree

2 = disagree 3 = undecided 4 = agree 5 = strongly

agree

6. I feel practicing nursing skills during simulations increased my confidence to perform

nursing skills during my preceptorship.

1 = strongly

disagree

2 = disagree 3 = undecided 4 = agree 5 = strongly

agree

7. The simulation experience at GWU was a beneficial tool to learn to perform patient

assessments.

1 = strongly

disagree

2 = disagree 3 = undecided 4 = agree 5 = strongly

agree

8. The roles of participants during the simulation exercises were helpful in in the

learning experience. (i.e. Primary nurse, Secondary nurse, Recorder)

1 = strongly

disagree

2 = disagree 3 = undecided 4 = agree 5 = strongly

agree

38

9. The experiences I had in the simulation lab enhanced my learning in areas that I did

not get to experience in my preceptorship.

1 = strongly

disagree

2 = disagree 3 = undecided 4 = agree 5 = strongly

agree

10. I feel that my experiences in the simulation lab have prepared me to confidently

perform safely as a new graduate nurse.

1 = strongly

disagree

2 = disagree 3 = undecided 4 = agree 5 = strongly

agree

11. I feel that my experiences in the simulation lab have prepared me to analyze an

unfamiliar situation and use sound nursing judgment to work through it.

1 = strongly

disagree

2 = disagree 3 = undecided 4 = agree 5 = strongly

agree

12. I feel that without the simulation lab experiences, I would not have the same level of

confidence about my nursing skills as a new graduate nurse.

1 = strongly

disagree

2 = disagree 3 = undecided 4 = agree 5 = strongly

agree

39

Thank you for completing this survey about your simulation lab experiences. Please add

any comments you feel appropriate concerning your simulation experiences

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

________________________________________________________________________

40

Appendix B

Introduction to Survey

41

Simulation Experience

My name is Sarah Tate. I am working to complete my MSN at Gardner-Webb

University with a concentration in education. This survey is a vital part of my Thesis. My

contact email is swtate@aol.com, if you have any questions. I would greatly appreciate

your participation in this brief survey. It involves 12 questions about your experiences

with the simulation lab while attending GWU School of Nursing, and an area for further

comment if you so choose to add comments.

This survey is totally anonymous. I will not know your name. I only will know

that you are a second year ADN nursing student, getting ready to graduate and become a

new nurse. I wish you the best of luck in your career, and in passing the nursing board

exam.

Thank you for your participation. If you would like to know the results of this

survey, please use the consent page to list your email and I will send the results when my

thesis is complete. By detaching this sheet from the survey, I will not be able to identify

you in relation to your survey or even know if you completed the survey.

By completing this survey, you are agreeing to participate in this research study.

42

Appendix C

Simulation Experience Survey Consent

43

Simulation Experience Consent

This student survey will be used to collect information concerning how you feel

about your simulation experiences while in nursing school. You may decline to

participate in the survey if you wish. This survey information will be used in a research

study that will look at student self-efficacy in relation to simulation experiences.

No personally identifiable information will be used in the study. The results will

be given as anonymous group results. You are under no obligation to complete a survey.

The final report will not include any personally identifiable information such as your

name. You are not obligated in any way to take this survey, and your grade will not be

compromised if you decline.

If you choose to complete the survey, please turn in the completed survey in the

provided sealed envelope to the instructor. Thank you for your assistance in this study.

You may request information about the results of this study by writing your name,

address, and/or telephone number and email on this paper and the researcher will be in

contact with you after this study is complete.

I would like to know the results of this study:

Name: ________________________________________________________

Address: _______________________________________________________________

Telephone: ________________________________

Email: _____________________________________

Preference to be contacted:

Address Telephone Email

44

Appendix D

Comments from Students

45

Comments from students:

"I was always more stressed in lab than in clinical, so I learned infinitely more

through clinicals than labs. Because all of our simulations were graded and we

couldn't ask questions, I never felt I learned much through them."

"I like the idea of different roles but I often felt like one person did all the work. If

my group members didn't know how to do a head-to-toe assessment, I would be

penalized, yet if I had been Primary, I would have completed the entire

assessment. In general, I think the Primary has a lot of pressure on them in each

situation."

"I feel like my preceptorship was more beneficial to me than simulation. I believe

after I completed my preceptorship that I was more confident in lab simulation."

"The grading with simulation the last semester of nursing school should be the

same throughout all of the simulations. It would allow you to be more aware of

errors."

"I feel that simulation is vital to nursing school and should be an

assessment/learning tool. However, the environment should be a learning

environment not judgmental and stressful. How can I learn if every week is a test,

but I still don't know how to properly set up a PCA pump? I think that each week

should be a simulation that is conducted where questions can be asked and we are

taught new assessment and critical thinking skills. Then have quarterly "test"

simulations." This student answered undecided for questions about assessing a

worsening situation and administering medications due to feeling those topics

were not fully addressed.

46

"Lab simulations are not real life. They do not prepare you for your preceptorship.

I would much rather practice nursing skills and become proficient at those

instead of learning them one time and never using them again."

"Labs still don't seem realistic enough for me. A lot of the time we didn't have

certain meds or equipment that we needed and often ‘pretended' that we did. I

think that we still need more time and experience with skills. It's hard to

remember exactly how to do something when you only do it once for a check off

then never again. There are many skills I did not get to perform in clinical and I

think the professors assume that every student gets a chance to perform most

skills, not always true."

" I feel that the current simulations are not yet up to optimum learning experience.

Right now we learn through bad grades and after the fact. If it was more inductive

[sic] to instructor/student interactions before and during the simulations, I believe

we would learn better from our mistakes by correcting them when they happen

rather than just seeing a bad grade and not knowing exactly what we did wrong at

what point. Also, I think it would be better if the prelab was fully discussed before

the simulations so a better understanding of the situation would help drive our

knowledge on what to do."

"Simulation lab allowed students to experience many situations that we would not

have likely had the opportunity to see in clinical. Many simulations were needed

to become accustomed to the process. I feel like everyone's assessment skills

improved greatly! The lab can be quite nerve-wracking at times but is beneficial

to students."

47

"A little more PCA practice would be useful. But overall, simulation was a good

skill-practicing and confidence-building experience."

"I really liked how our teachers made us come at different times throughout the

semester so we could get to experience everything from the beginning to the end."

"I believe simulation could be very helpful if they were always fully stocked with

equipment and we never had to 'fake' a skill or giving a med."

"Labs still need work. Med room still has problems. Too much pretending. Need

to go over lab pre-work before lab or at least post answers so we know where we

went wrong."